I want to help my students to experiment and be willing to change; not to become someone different but to build on who they are. I want them to venture into unknown territory, into a world of uncertainty. So I try to create a supportive classroom environment in which students feel safe experimenting with new skills and new ideas. Developing fundamental skills is critical because those skills empower them to realize their artistic vision more fully. But even more importantly, I encourage them to explore their interests and new ways of working so they can expand their artistic ideas. Finally, I challenge them to adopt higher standards and develop critical judgment that will help them critique their own work and the work of others.